Navarre Krewe of Jesters Royal Court, from lett: Rochelle Greenway, Robin McNulty, James McNulty and LeeAnn Wichard. / Special to the News Journal

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History of the krewe

Founded in 1986 by Burt Johnson and Ken Leveque Jr., the Navarre Krewe of Jesters was conceived at the Navarre Orleans Restaurant on Navarre Beach and has since grown to more than 50 members.

The krewe held its first parade in 1987 with about a dozen walking Jesters and a few floats. Over the years, the parade has become one of the biggest in the area, attracting thousands of people across the Panhandle. The Jesters will continue the annual tradition by parading down Navarre Beach on Feb. 22.

More about the krewe

"We pride ourselves on presenting a great family-friendly parade with fun for all and on our involvement in the community throughout the year," the krewe said in a press release. "We are a member of the Navarre Chamber of Commerce. Our community outreach includes scholarships for Navarre High School students, beach cleanup, visits to assisted living communities, participation in Relay for Life, and various local charitable events."

2014 theme

"Mo-Town"

2014 Royal Court

Royalty was announced during the annual Twelfth Night party on Jan. 4.

Grand Master: Frank Daily.

King: James McNulty.

Queen: Robin McNulty.

Queen of Hearts: LeeAnn Whichard.

Jester: Rochelle Greenway.

2014 Mardi Gras events

The annual Mardi Gras Ball will take place Feb. 15 at the Navarre Conference Center. Tickets are $35 and local band Crosstown will be entertaining the party.